The Untold Dangers of School Crossing Guards

Sun Nov 30 2025 22:21:56 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An investigation reveals the alarming risks faced by school crossing guards across the U.S., highlighting the urgent need for better safety measures as many suffer injuries—and even fatalities—while safeguarding children.

School crossing guards put their lives on the line daily, facing serious dangers from distracted and hurried drivers. An investigation shows hundreds have been injured over the last decade and dozens have died, often without the drivers facing significant consequences. This critical issue reveals the lack of protections and tracking for these essential workers, indicating a need for improved safety measures.

Across the United States, school crossing guards work tirelessly to protect children as they navigate busy streets, but many face significant dangers on the job. An investigation conducted by The Associated Press and Cox Media Group has revealed troubling findings: dozens of crossing guards have died in accidents, while hundreds more have been injured due to collisions with vehicles driven by distracted or hurried drivers.

Among these guards is Anthony Taylor, a crossing guard in Indianapolis, who recalls a traumatic experience from August 2018 when he was struck by a vehicle while fulfilling his duty. Following the incident, Taylor underwent surgery for serious injuries but was fortunate enough to return to work, highlighting the dangerous reality faced by many crossing guards.

Despite their pivotal role in ensuring children's safety, a lack of comprehensive tracking and reporting means many injuries and fatalities go unrecorded. Currently, only two states actively monitor crossing guard injuries, underscoring a systemic oversight in worker protections.

The report illustrated that nearly half of the drivers involved in accidents faced only minor citations for their actions, while others escaped without any penalties. As incidents of crossing guards being injured or killed continue—some of whom are older adults or retirees—the need for law enforcement, school districts, and local governments to implement stronger safety measures has never been clearer.

Solutions like installing smart crosswalks with flashing lights, enforcing speed limits, and educating drivers about crossing guard safety could prove crucial. Experts and affected families alike stress that increasing accountability for driver behavior is vital to ensuring that crossing guards can fulfill their responsibilities without fear of injury or fatality.

Inhabitants and families across the nation are left grieving the loss of crossing guards, raising awareness through community platforms, and demanding action. The narrative is clear: crossing guards deserve better protection while they serve our children. It is time for policy changes and public awareness to prioritize their safety on the job.